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My work grows out of a method of making and glazing earthenware that started in the Middle East and gained wild popularity in Europe during the Renaissance. It got its name - majolica - because it was originally imported into Spain through the island of Majorca. In France, it is called faience (originally imported through the port of Faienza), and in the Netherlands, delftware (principally made in the town of Delft). I make all the work by hand, on the wheel, from slabs, or hand-modeled. It is designed to be functional yet a work of art. I use the traditional red-colored clay because it is less prone to chipping and cracking than white earthenware, and because its color lends a beautiful contrast and warmth to each piece. No lead is used in the clay or glazes. The studio is in the middle of my organic garden, a source of inspiration for much of my work. Before ceramics, I spent 25 years in fine and graphic art, including 10 years as a sign painter. My work has won several awards and been exhibited in national shows, including Strictly Functional, and three years in my state's top ceramics show, the Colorado Clay Exhibit. In 2002, I won the award at this show for Best Functional Pottery, and in 2006, the award for Best Ceramics at the Crested Butte Arts Festival. |
